The keynote speaker, Kelly Mahler, captivated the audience with her expertise in interoception and child development. Her session shed light on the ways educators can support young learners in developing emotional awareness and self-regulation. With warmth and practical strategies, Mahler empowered teachers to create more supportive environments where children can thrive. Her engaging presentation resonated deeply, sparking meaningful discussions throughout the day.

Recognizing the unique needs of different age groups, the conference featured dedicated tracks for teachers of infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, ensuring that every educator received relevant and applicable insights. Workshops covered a broad spectrum of topics, including Elevating Play, Flipping the Script: From Chaos to Calm, Preparing Babies for Success, and Understanding and Supporting Special Needs, among others. These sessions explored innovative teaching techniques, social-emotional learning, and hands-on strategies educators could immediately bring back to their classrooms. Whether discussing best practices, experimenting with new activities, or sharing insights with peers, attendees were immersed in a vibrant learning experience. The atmosphere buzzed with enthusiasm as teachers exchanged ideas and reflected on how to best support the children in their care.

The day wasn’t just about professional development—it was also about appreciation and community. A delicious lunch catered by Seven Mile Market gave everyone a chance to relax and connect with colleagues in a warm, inviting setting. Between sessions, educators enjoyed raffles, swag bags, and an abundance of snacks, adding to the excitement and celebratory feel of the event.

As the conference drew to a close, teachers gathered in groups with their school colleagues and directors for a debrief activity, allowing them to reflect on key takeaways and brainstorm ways to implement new strategies in their classrooms. This final session fostered meaningful conversations among teams, reinforcing the collaborative spirit that had defined the entire day. One educator shared, "I really enjoyed my session at the end with my own staff because we got to learn together, reflect on our day, and share ideas that we could take back to our school and implement with each other." Another participant summed up the day beautifully, saying, "Love being a lifelong learner to be a better teacher!" A fellow educator echoed this sentiment, sharing, "I loved learning new information that I can use in my classroom."

For many, this conference was their first time attending, and the experience left a lasting impression. "Thank you so much! It was a very positive first experience," one educator noted. The overwhelming response from attendees underscored the importance of these gatherings in fostering professional growth and community among early childhood educators.

The Early Childhood Conference: Touching Hearts, Teaching Minds highlighted the vital role of Jewish education in shaping young learners. By nurturing Jewish values, traditions, and identity from the earliest years, educators help children build a meaningful connection to their heritage—helping them grow with a strong sense of identity, purpose, and belonging.